Sports Direct takes unusual step of denying bid rumour that hadn't even received any publicity

Sports Direct has taken the unusual step of denying a bid rumour that had previously not received any publicity.

The retailer founded by billionaire tycoon Mike Ashley said recent trade ‘speculation’ that it was interested in buying private equity backed shoe chain Office, which is owned by Silverfleet Capital, was untrue.

Toe-curling: The retailer said recent trade 'speculation' that it was interested in buying private equity backed shoe chain Office was untrue

Analysts described the unsolicited statement as ‘bizarre’ ahead of tomorrow’s key shareholder vote where investors are expected to reject what some see as an ‘excessive’ incentive scheme for Ashley.